Preliminary budget shows higher law-enforcement spending; commissioners to review COLA in October

Bonnie presented the county's preliminary budget and highlighted two large cost increases: approximately $130,000 tied to law-enforcement expenses and roughly $100,000 added to personnel costs in the sheriff's area related to temporary/part-time staffing. She said the county expects about $107,000 more in tax collections for 2027 but noted valuation declines mean some levies will produce less revenue than last year.

Commissioners said the cost-of-living (COLA) increase will be decided at the October meeting and asked Bonnie to gather information on what neighboring counties plan to do. Several commissioners urged more detailed presentations from entities that affect the budget — including the LEC — and agreed to invite the sheriff and state's attorney for more input at the next meeting.